Paula Deen shuts down 'The Lady & Sons' restaurant in Savannah After 36 years of operation

Celebrity chef Paula Deen has announced the sudden closure of her iconic Savannah restaurant, The Lady & Sons, along with her second local eatery, The Chicken Box. In a statement shared via her official website and social media on August 1, Deen, 78, confirmed that July 31 marked the final day of service for both restaurants.

“Hey, y’all, my sons and I made the heartfelt decision that Thursday, July 31st, was the last day of service,” Deen wrote. “Thank you for all the great memories and for your loyalty over the past 36 years.” No reason was given for the closures.

Deen opened The Lady & Sons in downtown Savannah in 1996 with her sons, Jamie and Bobby, after launching her food career in 1989 with a catering business called The Bag Lady. The restaurant, known for its Southern comfort food like fried chicken and banana pudding, quickly became a staple in the city’s dining scene, drawing long lines of loyal fans and even earning USA Today's "Meal of the Year" in 1999.

The Savannah location expanded following the success of her Food Network show Paula’s Home Cooking, which began in 2002. However, Deen’s television career was significantly impacted by a 2013 lawsuit that included allegations of racial and sexual harassment. Her admissions during a deposition led to the cancellation of her Food Network contracts. Despite the controversy, she maintained a strong fan base, transitioning to YouTube and other platforms.

In her recent announcement, Deen emphasized gratitude toward customers and staff, stating, “We are equally grateful to our incredible staff—past and present—whose hard work, care, and hospitality made the businesses what they were.”

Though her Savannah restaurants are now closed, Deen confirmed that her four Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen locations in Tennessee, South Carolina, and Missouri will remain open and continue operations.